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Otello's Oil: A Saga of Blood & Oil
Espionage meets opera in this gripping tale of murderous intrigue and heart-pounding suspense.
The U.S. Secretary of State is in a loveless marriage. She has invited the Oil Minister of Kuwait to dinner in Georgetown followed by opera at the Kennedy Center. In Act III of Giuseppe Verdi's Otello, a shot is fired, but no one hears a thing. The Minister slumps in his seat. Blood oozes from his chest. The Secretary is only inches away. Was she the target? Was she in love with her guest?
Elliot Jones is a Special Agent with the U.S. Diplomatic Security Service. He is tasked with leading the investigation. A cross between Sam Spade and Jack Ryan -- Jones won medals for shooting at the Summer Olympics.
He soon discovers that the Oil Minister was in the crosshairs of a global battle among the super powers for energy.
Winner, Literary Global Independent Author Awards, Best "Political Thriller"
Winner, Int'l Impact Book Awards, Best "Mystery/Thriller - Suspense Thriller"
Winner, Literary Titan Gold Book Award, Best Fiction
Winner, Global Book Awards, Best "Thriller-Espionage"
2025 Distinguished Favorite, Independent Press Awards
Second Place, BookFest, Best "Thriller-Political"
Finalist, American Writing Awards, Best "Thriller"
Finalist , Chanticleer International Book Awards 2024, Best "Global Thriller"
Finalist, American Legacy Book Awards, Best "Thriller-Political & Psychological"
The U.S. Secretary of State is in a loveless marriage. She has invited the Oil Minister of Kuwait to dinner in Georgetown followed by opera at the Kennedy Center. In Act III of Giuseppe Verdi's Otello, a shot is fired, but no one hears a thing. The Minister slumps in his seat. Blood oozes from his chest. The Secretary is only inches away. Was she the target? Was she in love with her guest?
Elliot Jones is a Special Agent with the U.S. Diplomatic Security Service. He is tasked with leading the investigation. A cross between Sam Spade and Jack Ryan -- Jones won medals for shooting at the Summer Olympics.
He soon discovers that the Oil Minister was in the crosshairs of a global battle among the super powers for energy.
Winner, Literary Global Independent Author Awards, Best "Political Thriller"
Winner, Int'l Impact Book Awards, Best "Mystery/Thriller - Suspense Thriller"
Winner, Literary Titan Gold Book Award, Best Fiction
Winner, Global Book Awards, Best "Thriller-Espionage"
2025 Distinguished Favorite, Independent Press Awards
Second Place, BookFest, Best "Thriller-Political"
Finalist, American Writing Awards, Best "Thriller"
Finalist , Chanticleer International Book Awards 2024, Best "Global Thriller"
Finalist, American Legacy Book Awards, Best "Thriller-Political & Psychological"
- GenresThriller
359 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 26, 2024
8 people are currently reading
3222 people want to read
About the author
D.W. Layton
1 book27 followersAs a young man Layton was greatly influenced by James Michener's The Drifters. Thus, after graduating from college he traveled the world. A vagabond. He ran with the bulls in Pamplona. He stomped grapes with his feet in Greece. He pulled giant crab pots off the floor of the Bering Sea.
After law school he attended Cambridge University in England where he obtained an advance degree in international law. After Cambridge he moved to Washington, D.C. where he worked in and out of government for over 35 years. During his career he practiced international law all over the world; often representing governments in disputes with other governments before the World Trade Organization in Geneva, Switzerland.
Layton has always been interested in the arts, appearing in two operas at the Kennedy Center as a supernumerary, while also raising three sons. He and his wife split their time between homes in Florida and the South of France.
After law school he attended Cambridge University in England where he obtained an advance degree in international law. After Cambridge he moved to Washington, D.C. where he worked in and out of government for over 35 years. During his career he practiced international law all over the world; often representing governments in disputes with other governments before the World Trade Organization in Geneva, Switzerland.
Layton has always been interested in the arts, appearing in two operas at the Kennedy Center as a supernumerary, while also raising three sons. He and his wife split their time between homes in Florida and the South of France.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
August 18, 2024
This book is a must-read for fans of political thrillers and anyone who enjoys a well-crafted mystery. With an intriguing plot, compelling characters, and expert storytelling, it’s a novel that will keep you hooked from beginning to end. The author skillfully blends elements of crime drama with contemporary geopolitical issues, creating a story that is both timeless and timely. At the same time, his attention to detail and knowledge of international affairs gives authenticity to the story. The richly described settings, from the streets of Washington, D.C., to the tension-filled opera house at the Kennedy Center, add depth and realism to the story. This is a fast-paced story filled with twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end. Whether you are a fan of classic detective stories or modern espionage thrillers, this book offers an unforgettable reading experience.
September 9, 2024
Otello’s Oil by Duane Layton
Espionage, mystery and murder at the opera, what’s not to love? Otello’s Oil draws you into a world of global political intrigue in the not too distant future, and into a thrilling murder mystery woven with in depth knowledge of Washington and the halls of power. With that detailed knowledge the author brings the story to life in a way that is both fascinating and captivating. Otello’s Oil is great read by a promising new author.
Espionage, mystery and murder at the opera, what’s not to love? Otello’s Oil draws you into a world of global political intrigue in the not too distant future, and into a thrilling murder mystery woven with in depth knowledge of Washington and the halls of power. With that detailed knowledge the author brings the story to life in a way that is both fascinating and captivating. Otello’s Oil is great read by a promising new author.
January 18, 2025
This had so much potential for me, I can’t really pinpoint why I didn’t love it. The plot was great but there were so many info dumps between dialogue and plot points. It just really bored me to tears at times.
November 26, 2024
Elliott Jones, a Special Agent with the U.S. Diplomatic Secret Service, is not a man to be trifled with. His razor-sharp analytical skills, coupled with Olympic-level marksmanship, make him the agency's go-to problem solver when crises strike. This time, the stakes couldn’t be higher. During a performance of Verdi’s Otello at the Kennedy Center, the oil minister is assassinated. The big question looms: was the minister the target, or was the real aim to eliminate the U.S. Secretary of State, seated mere inches away? Jones is tasked with unraveling this high-profile mystery, propelling him into a treacherous labyrinth of shifting alliances and hidden agendas.
D.W. Layton’s Otello’s Oil delivers a gripping political thriller that channels the intricate narratives of the late Tom Clancy while evoking the moral ambiguity of There Will Be Blood. At its core, the novel hinges on the steadfast yet evolving character of Elliott Jones. Initially, Jones approaches his mission with a clear-cut sense of justice, determined to find and punish those responsible. Yet, as the investigation deepens, so do the shades of gray. Each suspect and ally harbors selfish motives, blurring the lines between friend and foe. Jones soon realizes that the truth isn’t just elusive—it’s perilous. Layton’s masterful pacing drives the narrative across a globe-spanning stage, where the stakes rise with every turn. The constant motion and international intrigue create a sense of urgency that grips readers tightly. As Jones digs deeper into the assassination's tangled web, he finds himself questioning not only the loyalties of those around him but also his own role in a world where right and wrong seem interchangeable.
By the novel's end, the layers of political complexity are peeled back to reveal a chillingly unpredictable reality. Jones emerges both wiser and wearier, and his journey is a poignant commentary on the murky waters of international diplomacy. Readers, too, are left pondering the cost of truth in a world rife with deception. For fans of the genre, Otello’s Oil is a compelling and thought-provoking read, and many will eagerly await a sequel—should Layton decide to continue this enthralling saga.
D.W. Layton’s Otello’s Oil delivers a gripping political thriller that channels the intricate narratives of the late Tom Clancy while evoking the moral ambiguity of There Will Be Blood. At its core, the novel hinges on the steadfast yet evolving character of Elliott Jones. Initially, Jones approaches his mission with a clear-cut sense of justice, determined to find and punish those responsible. Yet, as the investigation deepens, so do the shades of gray. Each suspect and ally harbors selfish motives, blurring the lines between friend and foe. Jones soon realizes that the truth isn’t just elusive—it’s perilous. Layton’s masterful pacing drives the narrative across a globe-spanning stage, where the stakes rise with every turn. The constant motion and international intrigue create a sense of urgency that grips readers tightly. As Jones digs deeper into the assassination's tangled web, he finds himself questioning not only the loyalties of those around him but also his own role in a world where right and wrong seem interchangeable.
By the novel's end, the layers of political complexity are peeled back to reveal a chillingly unpredictable reality. Jones emerges both wiser and wearier, and his journey is a poignant commentary on the murky waters of international diplomacy. Readers, too, are left pondering the cost of truth in a world rife with deception. For fans of the genre, Otello’s Oil is a compelling and thought-provoking read, and many will eagerly await a sequel—should Layton decide to continue this enthralling saga.
February 1, 2025
“the global battle of superpowers”
D.W. Layton’s Otello’s Oil is a gripping political thriller that follows Elliot Jones, a highly skilled Special Agent with the U.S. Diplomatic Security Service. With a keen eye for detail and an instinct for danger, Elliot’s visit to Washington State to see his daughter, Rachael, a college student at the University of Washington, takes a dramatic turn when he thwarts a catastrophic event aboard the Chehalis ferry. This explosive opening sets the stage for a high-stakes narrative where global power struggles, corruption, and espionage collide.
The novel quickly escalates into a whirlwind of intrigue as a murder backstage at the Kennedy Center’s production of Otello and the assassination of a Kuwaiti Oil Minister in D.C. unravel a complex web of political and corporate interests. With international players—including the Russians, the mafia, and deep-seated government corruption—maneuvering behind the scenes, Elliot is thrust into a dangerous mission that spans continents, uncovering the dark truths behind the oil industry and those who seek to control it.
Layton’s storytelling is fast-paced and immersive, with vivid descriptions that bring every location and event to life. The novel’s intricate plotting keeps readers hooked, weaving together multiple perspectives and high-stakes action with a depth that makes each twist and turn feel both unpredictable and deeply relevant.
For fans of political thrillers packed drama, and a hero who won’t back down, Otello’s Oil is a must-read. Its thrilling blend of action, corruption, and international intrigue makes it a book worth sharing and discussing long after the final page!
D.W. Layton’s Otello’s Oil is a gripping political thriller that follows Elliot Jones, a highly skilled Special Agent with the U.S. Diplomatic Security Service. With a keen eye for detail and an instinct for danger, Elliot’s visit to Washington State to see his daughter, Rachael, a college student at the University of Washington, takes a dramatic turn when he thwarts a catastrophic event aboard the Chehalis ferry. This explosive opening sets the stage for a high-stakes narrative where global power struggles, corruption, and espionage collide.
The novel quickly escalates into a whirlwind of intrigue as a murder backstage at the Kennedy Center’s production of Otello and the assassination of a Kuwaiti Oil Minister in D.C. unravel a complex web of political and corporate interests. With international players—including the Russians, the mafia, and deep-seated government corruption—maneuvering behind the scenes, Elliot is thrust into a dangerous mission that spans continents, uncovering the dark truths behind the oil industry and those who seek to control it.
Layton’s storytelling is fast-paced and immersive, with vivid descriptions that bring every location and event to life. The novel’s intricate plotting keeps readers hooked, weaving together multiple perspectives and high-stakes action with a depth that makes each twist and turn feel both unpredictable and deeply relevant.
For fans of political thrillers packed drama, and a hero who won’t back down, Otello’s Oil is a must-read. Its thrilling blend of action, corruption, and international intrigue makes it a book worth sharing and discussing long after the final page!
November 6, 2024
Otello’s Oil is an intriguing, descriptive book, With mysterious twists and turns throughout. This is an interesting book following Elliot Jones, a Special Agent. The book sends the reader straight into an action packed first couple of chapters, setting the scene for the excellent skills of Elliot Jones, allowing us as a reader to understand his successes.
An intriguing aspect of this book is how well the personal and professional lives of characters are so well intertwined. I particularly liked how fast this book jumps into action, ready for the reader to experience the knowledge of Elliot Jones.
It's unique in the fact of it being a political thriller / mystery, book theme that isn't always the most common to find.
The author demonstrates a huge level of knowledge and understanding of the themes throughout the book, allowing it to be an easy read.
The settings of this novel are interesting , and keep the reader gripped throughout. I think the characters are very well thought out and detailed, allowing them to be pictured throughout. Another thing I think has been done excellently is that the story itself is continually fast-paced, and leaves you intrigued, letting you feel involved with the mysteries being discussed , while also being able to keep up with the story as it occurs.
I'd definitely recommend this book to any people who enjoy a unique, fast-paced thriller, this book has excellent descriptions and characters throughout, and enjoyable writing style , that's easy to follow.
An intriguing aspect of this book is how well the personal and professional lives of characters are so well intertwined. I particularly liked how fast this book jumps into action, ready for the reader to experience the knowledge of Elliot Jones.
It's unique in the fact of it being a political thriller / mystery, book theme that isn't always the most common to find.
The author demonstrates a huge level of knowledge and understanding of the themes throughout the book, allowing it to be an easy read.
The settings of this novel are interesting , and keep the reader gripped throughout. I think the characters are very well thought out and detailed, allowing them to be pictured throughout. Another thing I think has been done excellently is that the story itself is continually fast-paced, and leaves you intrigued, letting you feel involved with the mysteries being discussed , while also being able to keep up with the story as it occurs.
I'd definitely recommend this book to any people who enjoy a unique, fast-paced thriller, this book has excellent descriptions and characters throughout, and enjoyable writing style , that's easy to follow.
April 7, 2025
Othello's Oil is Book 1 in A Saga of Blood & Oil Book Series by D.W. Layton. The author wrote a tremendously interesting opening to the book set in a few years in the future with our character named Elliot Jones who is traveling with his daughter. There is a problem on board a ferry and Elliot tells people on board about it and the problem is solved and Elliot is a true hero;) I love the character of Elliot, he is a middle aged man in excellent shape and working for a branch of the secret service dealing with diplomats exclusively.
The book deals with Elliot who is in charge of the investigation regarding the US Secretary of State and the Oil Minister of Kuwait who are together at Othello together. However the Minister is dead during act III and the only witness is the woman next to him, the Secretary of State of the US. Were they together in a romantic way? You have to read and find out! The writing is fast paced and easy to follow and I love how the author places the story around the Othello play and how there is so much political intrigue in this thriller!
The book deals with Elliot who is in charge of the investigation regarding the US Secretary of State and the Oil Minister of Kuwait who are together at Othello together. However the Minister is dead during act III and the only witness is the woman next to him, the Secretary of State of the US. Were they together in a romantic way? You have to read and find out! The writing is fast paced and easy to follow and I love how the author places the story around the Othello play and how there is so much political intrigue in this thriller!
February 4, 2025
If you love action, political fiction and a badass main character, then you’ll probably enjoy this – it has all three! I had a bit of a love/hate relationship with this book. I was engrossed in the action, but the political chapters, regular info dumps and large cast of characters left me sometimes confused and a bit bored.
Otello's Oil combines crime, mystery and politics to create a multilayered story of betrayal, love and greed. It's a heavy read at times with a lot to keep track of, but Layton's creation of Elliot Jones was the reason I stuck with this until the end. He's a great main character, his desire to protect his family and do what is right, as well as his actions in times of fear and immense danger were great.
I loved the action, but less so the politics. Not the perfect book for me, nor was it written as well as it could be, but I appreciated the original story line. 2.5 stars, but rounded up to 3.
Otello's Oil combines crime, mystery and politics to create a multilayered story of betrayal, love and greed. It's a heavy read at times with a lot to keep track of, but Layton's creation of Elliot Jones was the reason I stuck with this until the end. He's a great main character, his desire to protect his family and do what is right, as well as his actions in times of fear and immense danger were great.
I loved the action, but less so the politics. Not the perfect book for me, nor was it written as well as it could be, but I appreciated the original story line. 2.5 stars, but rounded up to 3.
September 13, 2024
Otello’s Oil starts off with a bang and the action just keeps coming! The fact that agent Elliot Jones works for a government agency I’d never heard of, the U.S. Diplomatic Security Service, was a refreshing change to the usual espionage/thriller genre. Jones is a likable protagonist, and the author skillfully weaves his professional and personal lives throughout the book. I loved the backstage opera details, and the beautifully described global locations keep the story barreling along at a fast pace. The author displays thorough knowledge of energy geopolitics, yet doesn’t ignore the small details. Even the minor characters are fully fleshed out. The murder at the opera has a wonderful Hitchcockian vibe with a fascinating twist. There are many intriguing plot threads to be further developed, so I am eagerly awaiting the sequel!
August 26, 2024
Otellos Oil is a thrill ride starting on page one. It wastes no time getting you hooked in mystery and true detective work from the start. Spread across international borders, it has a strong resemblance to James Bond, Jason Bourne and Jack Ryan, all in one. It's an easy read and easy to finish one day. You'll be on the edge of your seat the whole book. Definitely book of the summer!
August 31, 2024
A must-read. A fascinating and superbly documented political thriller about the world’s nations power play to master the energies that run the planet. Characters are very much alive and endearing. It’s intertwined with an intriguing and inventive love story. I’m impatient waiting for his next book.
February 18, 2025
I thought this book was boring and uneventful for something that should have plenty of action. I struggled to finish it and did not really enjoy the process. If you’re interested in politics and the oil business, you might enjoy this book. But it was not for me.
October 27, 2024
A great first book. Intrigue, spies, engaging hero. From an author who knows whereof he speaks. Looking forward to a second book.
January 8, 2025
Well-written, fast paced, strong character development. Love the combination of geopolitics and opera. Complex plot, uncommonly sophisticated. Great read and look forward to more from this author.
August 3, 2025
A great read by a promising new author. A real page turner.
November 17, 2024
The plot really drew me in. Layton makes characters and locations come alive, and his knowledge of the inner workings of various government agencies makes events feel very plausible. I devoured this book.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews